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Historical places #22 in London

Battersea Power Station

4.6 · 27,804 reviews
Modern, industrial-chic, and vibrant.
Battersea Power Station, Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW11 8DD, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The building was designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, who also designed the iconic red British telephone box.

2

The power station was built in two stages, with the first half (Station A) completed in 1935 and the second half (Station B) in 1955.

3

During its peak, the station provided up to 20% of London's total electricity supply.

4

The building is one of the world's largest brick structures, featuring over six million bricks in its exterior.

5

It has featured prominently in pop culture, most notably as the cover art for Pink Floyd’s 1977 album, 'Animals', complete with a giant inflatable pig.

6

The original chimneys were dismantled and rebuilt using the same construction methods as the 1930s originals to meet modern safety standards.

7

The site includes a 'glazing' that consists of over 25,000 individual glass panels.

8

It has been used as a filming location for various productions, including Alfred Hitchcock's 'Sabotage' and 'The Dark Knight'.

Overview

Battersea Power Station is a decommissioned coal-fired power station repurposed into a major retail and leisure complex. It is defined by its four distinctive Art Deco chimneys, which were reconstructed during the site's multi-billion pound restoration. The central Turbine Halls house high-end retail, restaurants, and experiential attractions within the original industrial structure. The development includes the 'Lift 109' glass elevator that ascends to the top of the northwest chimney for panoramic views. Residential apartments and offices are integrated into the upper levels of the former boiler houses. The surrounding grounds have been transformed into a public park known as Battersea Power Station Park. The site is a Grade II* listed building, recognizing its significance in British industrial architecture.

Photo spot

From the north bank of the Thames near Chelsea Bridge for the best view of all four chimneys.

Insider tips

Book Lift 109 tickets well in advance if you want to visit the chimney summit, as time slots sell out quickly.

Explore the 'Electric Boulevard' connecting the power station to the residential neighborhoods for diverse dining options.

Walk the riverside pathway at sunset to see the building's illumination from the north side of the river.

What to avoid

Assuming the building is only for shopping; do not miss the historical exhibitions located inside the Turbine Halls.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid large crowds; early evening to see the building illuminated.
Address
Battersea Power Station, Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW11 8DD, United Kingdom
51.482, -0.144
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleArt Deco / Industrial
Heritage StatusGrade II* Listed Building

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid large crowds; early evening to see the building illuminated..

From the north bank of the Thames near Chelsea Bridge for the best view of all four chimneys.

Close by you'll find Buckingham Palace, London Eye, Battersea Park.